During a press briefing today at the White House, President Trump deemed that churches and houses of worship are essential and that “in America, we need more prayer, not less.”

The president also announced that Center for Disease Control and Prevention will issue new guidelines that will classify houses of worship as “essential.”

President Trump chastised governors who have used government overreach to put restrictions on houses of worship.

“Some governors have deemed liquor stores, abortion clinics as essential. But have left out churches. It’s not right. So I am correcting this injustice and calling houses of worship, essential. I call upon governors to allow our churches and houses of worship to open right now. If they have any questions, they’re going to have to call me. But they won’t be successful,” said Trump.

President Trump also added, “The governors need to do the right thing and allow these very important essential places of faith to open right now, for this weekend. If they don’t do it, I will override the governors. In America, we need more prayer, not less.”

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, “I am pleased that President Trump recognizes that churches and houses of worship are essential and is committed to fighting for them. The First Amendment is our first freedom in the Bill of Rights precisely because houses of worship are essential to the success of America. These oppressive orders against churches and houses of worship must end. The best way to honor the men and women who died for our freedom is to live free.”